A local authority member is researching the demand for level access showers by Occupational Therapists for council owned dwellings. During the review of their Capital Projects budget and in particular the Adaptations budget, they have noticed an increasing volume of requests for Level Access Showers being recommended by Occupational Therapists for tenants.

They’d be interested to know if other stock holding councils are experiencing the same increase in requests. If they have, have they looked at mechanisms for reducing the costs, for example when replacing bathroom fittings – installing “plug in” baths and wet room type flooring that would enable if necessary the bath to be easily removed, and shower facilities installed using the pre-installed plumbing underneath the bath and flooring. Or by having a policy of only installing showers in flats that are not designated for use by families.

They have a short timescale for this piece of research and would be keen to know:

  • Has your council noticed an increase in requests for level access showers over the last three years?
  • Has your council considered or introduced any mechanisms to reduce the costs and for dealing with the requests for level access showers?
  • If so, what mechanisms have been considered or put in place and have they been cost saving?

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